Named after the Florence bridge that has in itself become a symbol of fine Italian jewellery manufacture, Ponte Vecchio specialises in rare and elegant 18ct gold and diamond jewellery. If you’re shopping for fine jewellery for yourself and you want to learn more before committing, here’s everything you need to know about Ponte Vecchio…
The story of Ponte Vecchio jewellery began during the 1960’s when founder Ugo Cala began working in his father’s barber shop on Ponte Vecchio bridge. Many of his clients were goldsmiths employed by some of the country’s most famous jewellers. He quickly found himself developing a passion for all things sparkly and so much to his father’s dismay, Ugo decided to start an apprenticeship with one of the most prestigious jewellery brands in the area. He effortlessly mastered the art of Florentine goldsmithing and shortly after his graduation, he founded the Ponte Vecchio Gioielli jewellery brand.
Infusing sacred Italian techniques with his own innovative ideas, Ugo Cala quickly become reverred for his stunning jewellery designs. He believed that each piece of Ponte Vecchio jewellery must have its own sense of identity, combining traditional methods and materials with modern flair so women all around the world can feel beautiful, confident and gracious. Helping keep the family business going, Ugo’s son Francesco joined the brand during the 2000’s. To make sure he had a full understating of the business, he was trained at the workbench as goldsmith as well as at front of house, establishing relationships with the customers and understanding their desires. In 2018, Francesco took full control of the company and to this day continues his father’s legacy by designing beautiful new Ponte Vecchio jewellery collections.
Many of the Ponte Vecchio jewellery creations are characterised by precious gemstones set within 18ct gold. A good example of this is the Ponte Vecchio Iris jewellery collection which brings to life the harmonious flower of the same name through bouquets of London blue and sky topaz, citrine, amethyst, garnet and diamonds. Similarly, the Ponte Vecchio Vega jewellery collection focuses on the diamond to evoke the light of the brightest star. Different degrade cuts and colours make each piece of Ponte Vecchio Vega jewellery completely unique, just like that of the wearer.
In honour of their home, each piece of Ponte Vecchio jewellery comes delivered in a special box closed by a padlock, something you’ll see many of on the Ponte Vecchio bridge. The location is famous for lovers securing their own padlock onto the structure, one that represents their everlasting love, before throwing away the key into the waters of the Arno river below.
W Hamond is a proud official stockist of Ponte Vecchio jewellery. You can shop their stunning collections of gemstone jewellery on our website and in our stores.
